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Archaeology of Dover Supplementary Planning Document (SPD)

The Council’s Archaeology of Dover Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPD) has now been adopted by Council on 28th January 2026.

The Archaeology of Dover SPD seeks to highlight the potential for archaeology for everyone involved in development proposals within Dover Town but also provides general guidance on planning and archaeology that is applicable across the whole district.

Archaeology of Dover (SPD) (January 2026)
Adoption Statement
Consultation Statement
SEA/HRA Screening Assessment
Equality Impact Assessment

What is an SPD?

A Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) provides extra detail to existing policies within the adopted Local Plan. They are a ‘material consideration’ in deciding a planning application, meaning they will be referenced in applications where their content is relevant.

Who is this guidance for?

This guidance is for applicants, including homeowners and developers, where archaeological works may be necessary as part of the scheme.
It highlights the importance of the archaeology across the town and sets out a clear staged process to help applicants meet the requirements of policy HE3 of the Local Plan.
It applies specifically to Dover town but the principles and techniques set out in the document can be used across the district.

Fig 2 Map of the Archaeological Character Zones of Dover

Fig 1: Map of the Archaeolgoical Character Zones of Dover

The SPD builds on work carried out by Kent County Council to identify and interpret the complex archaeology of Dover and create an enhanced Urban Archaeological Database (UAD). This work has lead into the development of 23 Character Zones across the UAD area which provide a snapshot in time of the development of the town from the Prehistoric to modern times. Multiple high-profile archaeological discoveries in the past show that discoveries continue to be made which enhance Dover’s vibrant and rich place in history.

What does this document say?

Up to date information on the known archaeology in Dover town and identifies the potential for further discoveries
Guidance for applicants and developers on how and when to best protect archaeological assets throughout the planning process
The benefits of early assessment and engagement with archaeological professionals.

The SPD contains the following:

Chapter 1 gives a brief history of Dover’s known archaeological assets to date
Chapter 2 outlines the legislative and policy background for applications
Chapter 3 introduces the Dover Urban Archaeological Database, and the 23 Character Zones within Dover Town. The chapter includes a table which provides a link to the detailed text of each Character Zone
Chapters 4, 5 and 6 explain in more detail the methods which applicants should use to comply with policy and legislative requirements before, during and after the planning application process.